I stepped onto the diving board and stood at the edge for several minutes as I prepared to take my first dive into the college pool. Trying to relax and remember the techniques from my swimming classes, I still felt nervous. “Don’t be afraid,” my swimming coach yelled as he waited for me to dive. “Remember, I’m right here to help you.” When I heard my coach’s words, I decided to dive in, feeling confident that he would assist me if I encountered problems. As I recalled this situation, I thought about Jesus as he prayed in the garden of Gethsemane. Feeling afraid, he prayed, “Take this cup from me.” But he also must have known that he could trust his heavenly Father completely and that his Father would deliver him, even in death, because he continued, “Yet not what I will, but what you will” (Mark. 14:36). As we journey through life, we will encounter troubles and danger. But just as Jesus trusted God in his darkest hour, we too can remain confident in God’s promise to take care of us during this life and the life to come.

James C. Hendrix

(Indiana, USA)

Thought for the Day: Even when others forsake us, we can still trust God.

Prayer: Dear steadfast and loving God, may we learn to trust you in every circumstance. Amen.